The first events will include jazz in Pembrokeshire, world folk music in Caerphilly County, Shakespeare in Powys and jazz in Chepstow.
The Night Out scheme provides a guarantee against loss for communities in most areas, ensuring that even if initially the numbers attending are small and income can’t cover the performer fee, no one is out of pocket. For over forty years it has been a key means for communities across Wales to stage professional arts performances in smaller and more remote communities and socially deprived areas. It ensures that everyone can have access to good quality arts.
With restrictions easing and alert levels reduced, Welsh Government have confirmed that live performances can begin once again in Wales. Each event will be in line with the latest performing guidance and audiences will be socially distanced and Covid safe.
Commenting today, Peter Gregory, Head of Night Out said:
“It has been more than 18 months since the last live Night Out events, and so many performers have been unable to earn a living during this period. Now that things are starting to ease, it’s so exciting to help communities and artists start the gradual journey back to once more performing across the length and breadth of the Wales.
“We are aware that the appetite to start again varies considerably in different parts of Wales, and that many organisers worry about what they will need to consider to organise an event safely.
“As a result, the Arts Council of Wales Night Out team held two zoom sessions for promoters to discuss organising covid safe events. These were attended by over 70 people from all parts of Wales. For many venues, social distancing mean that numbers are severely limited, but some are still keen to put on a live concert.
“As regulations change, we hope more halls will feel confident enough to put on a great show for their community – and we’re here to help them on that journey.”
The first post-lockdown events, being supported by Night Out, are:
9/07 7pm - Off The Beaten Track present Mishra and Rob Lear at Rudry Parish Hall , Caerphilly
10/07 8pm - Zoë Gilby Quartet, presented by Aberjazz at Theatr Gwaun, Fishguard
15/07 7pm - Shakespeare Link with an open-air performance of King Lear Retold at The Willow Globe in Powys
16/07 7pm- Off The Beaten Track present 3 daft monkeys and Jess Silk at Rudry parish Hall, Caerphilly
31/07 7.30pm - Chepstow Jazz present Dave Newton trio at the Drill Hall Chepstow
END 07 July 2021